How To Get Your Dog To Sleep Through The Night

For pet parents, few things are as essential as a good night's sleep, for both you and your furry companion. Yet coaxing your beloved dog to sleep through the night isn't always a walk in the park. Whether you're dealing with a young pup, an older dog, or simply seeking to establish a solid nighttime routine, mastering this aspect of their wellbeing is crucial. Let's delve into a comprehensive guide on how to get your dog to sleep through the night, including when puppies naturally start sleeping through and what to do when you need your dog to settle fast. 1. Establish a Consistent Routine Dogs thrive on routine. Set regular feeding times, walks and play sessions during the day. This helps expend their energy, making it easier for them to settle down at night. As they get used to your routine of settling down in the evening, they are much more likely to follow suit and settle down with you. 2. Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment Designate a cosy, quiet and dark sleeping area for your dog. The right bed makes a huge difference: older dogs and big breeds often benefit from extra cushioning for their joints, while anxious pups love a high sided design they can nestle into. Our collection of luxury dog beds and mattresses has options for every sleep style, and a familiar bed also gives your dog a clear signal that this spot means rest. 3. Exercise Their Body and Brain A tired dog is a sleepy dog. Make sure your pup gets enough physical exercise during the day for their age and breed, and don't forget mental stimulation, which can be just as tiring. Enrichment activities such as snuffle mats and interactive puzzle toys for dogs work their brain and take the edge off any leftover evening energy. Just avoid vigorous play in the hour before bed, as it can leave them wired rather than tired. 4. Wind Down Together Build a calm buffer between the busyness of the day and lights out. Dim the lights, lower the noise and keep interactions gentle. We personally love having snuggles on the sofa with our pups as part of their nighttime routine. Over time this wind down period becomes a cue in itself, telling your dog that sleep is coming next. 5. Try Calming Aids For dogs who struggle to switch off, calming products can genuinely help. Pheromone diffusers, calming sprays and soothing supplements all have their place, and you can browse our full range of calming products for anxious pets to find what suits your dog. Licking and gentle chewing also release calming hormones, so a long lasting chew or a lick mat before bed can help a restless dog relax. 6. Dietary Considerations Avoid feeding large meals right before bedtime. Opt for feeding your dog earlier in the evening to allow ample time for digestion and prevent discomfort. If your dog wakes early demanding breakfast, shifting their evening meal slightly later can sometimes buy you an extra hour in the morning too. 7. Toilet Breaks Ensure your dog has had the opportunity to relieve themselves before settling down for the night. A final toilet break just before bed can prevent disruptions during the night, especially for puppies and senior dogs whose bladders need more frequent emptying. 8. A Comforting Presence For puppies or dogs prone to anxiety, your presence can be reassuring. Consider leaving an item with your scent, like a piece of clothing, near their sleeping area, or tuck one of our soft dog blankets into their bed so it picks up the smell of home. You could also try something like a heartbeat sheep or warm buddy bear, which are designed to comfort your dog through the night by mimicking the warmth and heartbeat of littermates. 9. Positive Reinforcement Encourage and reward your dog's calm behaviour at bedtime. Quiet praise or a small treat when they settle in their own bed teaches them that choosing sleep is a good thing. Never punish night waking; it only adds stress, which makes sleep harder for everyone. 10. Handle Night Waking Calmly If your dog does wake in the night, keep the response boring. Quietly address genuine needs such as a toilet trip, keep the lights low, skip the play and conversation, and settle them straight back into bed. Minimal interaction stops night waking from turning into an entertaining habit. When Do Puppies Sleep Through the Night? If you are in the puppy trenches right now, take heart: most puppies start sleeping through the night at around 16 weeks of age, once their bladder control has matured enough to last seven to eight hours. Many get close much earlier. From eight weeks old, a lot of puppies can manage a solid six hour stretch, and by 12 weeks some will already be sleeping through, especially with a consistent routine, a final late toilet break and a cosy crate set up next to your room in the early weeks. Every puppy is different, and toy breeds with tiny bladders often take a little longer. The good news is that night waking in young puppies is usually about comfort and company rather than just toileting, so the settling techniques above make a real difference from day one. For a full step by step plan, read our guide to getting your puppy to sleep through the night. How to Make Your Dog Sleep Instantly Plenty of owners search for how to make your dog sleep instantly, and while there is no magic off switch, you can get surprisingly close by stacking the right cues together. The fastest route to a sleeping dog looks like this: good exercise earlier in the day, a calm hour before bed with no exciting games, a final toilet trip, and then a settling activity such as a lick mat or long lasting chew in their bed, since licking and chewing actively release calming hormones. Finish with darkness, quiet or gentle white noise, and a consistent phrase such as "bedtime" that your dog learns to associate with sleep. Used together and repeated nightly, these cues can take a dog from wide awake to fast asleep in a matter of minutes. What never works is forcing it: if your dog seems unable to settle night after night despite a good routine, pain, itching or anxiety could be the real culprit, and a vet check is the sensible next step. Frequently Asked Questions How much sleep does a dog need? Adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, puppies can need 18 or more, and senior dogs often sleep 14 to 18 hours. Most of that is made up of daytime naps around a long overnight stretch. You can find a full breakdown by age in our guide to how much sleep dogs need. Why does my dog wake up in the middle of the night? Common culprits include needing the toilet, hunger, noises outside, being too hot or cold, boredom from too little daytime exercise, and anxiety. In older dogs, new night waking can signal joint pain or cognitive changes, so mention it to your vet if it persists. Should my dog sleep in my bedroom? It comes down to preference. Many dogs settle faster near their owners, and young puppies benefit from company in the first weeks. The key is that your dog has their own comfortable bed, wherever it lives. If your pup has claimed your duvet and you want it back, our tips to stop your dog sleeping on your bed will help you reset the boundaries kindly.

How To Choose A Dog Bed

Humans spend a third of their lives in bed, so you probably spent ages choosing the right bed and mattress to make sure that you get the best night’s sleep possible and don’t end up like Goldilocks with a bed that’s not right! But what about choosing the perfect dog bed? A dog can spend a significant amount of time in their bed, and as a beloved member of your family, your furry friend needs a bed that they’re happy and comfortable with. But how exactly do you choose the right bed for your dog? For many dogs, their bed is an important part of their lives that helps with relaxing, unwinding and gaining some personal space away from humans and other animals. It may be tempting as a dog owner to allow your pooch to carry out their naps in your bed or on other items of furniture around the house, but as a dog bed offers suitable support to your dog and a sanctuary for them during downtime, it’s important they have one. In this guide we take a closer look at choosing a dog bed, one that’s perfect for dreaming and sleeping all night long!   Do Dogs Need Beds? On average, dogs spend between 12 and 18 hours of the day asleep, so a bed that’s comfortable, supportive and suits their needs is key for any dog. It’s only natural that your four-legged friend may choose to take power naps beside you on the sofa or even spend moments sleeping in your bed, but a dog bed is an important asset in any dog’s life and it is often recognised as their own environment for having time by themselves, relaxing and unwinding after a long day causing mischief.   Other benefits to dog beds include: Contributing to health and comfort Easing feelings of stress and anxiety Improving the training process Offering quality sleep Preserving condition of human furniture Preventing behavioural issues    How to choose a dog bed  There are loads of dog beds to choose from here at Lords & Labradors but picking the right bed for your dog can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you can use a few key factors to pick out the best option for your dog based on the breed and size of your dog and how they like to sleep.  The key things to think about when choosing a dog bed are Size Sleeping Styles Comfort   How To Choose A Dog Bed Size Size plays an important role in deciding the correct bed for your dog. If you have a Dachshund, an extra-large bed designed for sprawling out may be excessive, just as you would be lucky to fit any part of a Doberman in a small igloo bed. A dog bed needs to be big enough for them to comfortably lie in all their favourite positions whilst still being small enough for them to feel cosy & safe in. All our dog beds, here at Lords and Labradors, have a size guide which will help give you an idea of which bed we’d recommend for your breed. Measuring your dog will help to give you an idea of what size dog bed they will need. To do this, wait until they are sleeping and measure them in centimetres from their nose to their back paws. You should then add around 25 centimetres onto the measurement you’ve taken and a bed with a similar length should be ideal for your furry friend.     How To Choose A Dog Bed Style As well as the size of your dog, how they sleep is also an important factor to consider. Your dog will give you clues about what bed they’d sleep best in and how they like to sleep every single day. Some dogs love to stretch out, whereas other dogs love to curl up with their nose touching their tail. Here we talk you through the different styles of dog bed and what sleep style they suit.   Mattress Beds/Cushions Is your dog a side sleeper? Do they love to sprawl out whilst sleeping? Maybe a cushion or a mattress bed is for them, this will give them the space to stretch out whilst still being super comfy. Our crate cushions also work great as standalone cushions for dogs who love their sleep space.   High Wall Beds The tall squishy walls of a high wall bed are great for dogs who love something to rest their head on whilst still curling up . The high sides will help to keep them feeling safe and secure, so they can really get cosy during nap time. Our high wall beds have a lowered front edge so it’s easy for your dog to get in and out.   Donut Beds Donut beds as the name suggest are a circle shape with a raised ring round the side. These are great dog bed for dogs who suffer with anxiety and like to curl up in their bed to unwind, the cosy sides will cocoon them and make them feel safe. We’ve made our donut beds with the most sumptuously soft faux fur so it’s perfect for snuggling up in for those all important naps.   Box Beds Does your dog like to stretch out but still love something to rest their head on? A dog box bed is a perfect choice for them. The square shape means they’ve got plenty of space to stretch out but the padded edges are soft and perfect for hanging their head off whilst napping.   Orthopaedic Beds Just like we can get orthopaedic mattresses, you can get orthopaedic dog beds. These are a great choice for dogs who have specific health needs, like joint problems or senior dogs who need a little more support. The foam inner on our L&L Orthopaedic mattress has been designed to provide plenty of support for dogs who need it. They’re also low to the floor so they’re easy for dogs with aches and pains to get on and off.   Den Beds Does your dog like to burrow and hide? Breeds such as Dachshunds and Jack Russels were bred to go to ground when hunting so have a natural instinct to tunnel and burrow, so a den bed is perfect for them. Our den beds are round and have a comfy cushions so are perfect for curling up in but the attached blanket means they can hide and burrow before settling down to sleep.     Picking the perfect puppy bed Are you getting a new puppy? You’ll probably want to get them a puppy bed before transitioning to an adult bed. Puppy beds are usually slightly smaller than the adult beds to stop your puppy from feeling lost in their new bed. We have two styles of puppy beds here at L&L, both of which have been tested with our own puppies to make sure they’re fit for purpose   Cosy & Calming Puppy Crate Bed Our cosy & calming puppy beds are exactly as the name suggests, cosy and calming. They have been designed to fill just over half of a dog crate so if you’re crate training your puppy this will help divide their crate and aid their toilet training. The rectangle beds have padded raised walls all the way round for your puppy to snuggle up in and the cushion in the middle is made from the softest fleece, perfect for all those naps your puppy needs!   Grow With Me Puppy Beds Our newest addition to our bed range, the grow with me puppy beds have high walls to create a feeling of security for nervous puppies. They feature a soft removable ring which you can take out as your puppy grows. This means the bed is never too big for your puppy and it can grow with them. This is perfect dog bed to choose for more nervous puppies or puppies who love to be cocooned and curled up    Do dogs need soft beds? Dog beds are available in a selection of different materials, so it’s important you choose the most suitable option for your dog. A dog bed needs to be firm enough to offer support to your dog but comfortable enough to make them feel cosy and relaxed. For puppies, a super soft dog bed with sides to prevent them from tumbling out will make them feel more settled, especially if they’ve recently moved into your home. However, this type of bed may be too small to fit a larger dog, and as older dogs may struggle to get out of a bed that’s particularly spongy, a dog cushion would be more fitting, and it would help to support their ageing joints. For more destructive dogs you might want a dog bed that’s made out of something more hardwearing, like our Rhino Tough faux-leather beds, rather than a soft furry beds!   How Long Do Dog Beds Last? Whether your dog is prone to bringing snacks to bed, walking mud all over their bed or scratching at it and kneading it until it feels exactly right, it’s to be expected that it will become damaged and eventually require replacing. A dog bed’s lifespan could be several years if it’s a good quality or a matter of weeks if it’s not. However, you can extend the time you use a dog bed by washing it as instructed on the label and cleaning away any food or dirt as soon as it comes into contact with it. Dogs are messy creatures by design, but it’s a shame to let them ruin a perfectly good bed, especially if it’s one they’re particularly fond of.   How Often Should You Replace A Dog Bed As dogs are unpredictable, it’s not always easy to anticipate when they will do something that totally ruins their bed. It may be in good condition for several months before they pull out a thread while scratching it and end up accidentally ripping it open and pulling out all the stuffing. Unfortunately, if this happens, it’s unlikely that you will be able to fix it and the best solution will be to replace it entirely with a new dog bed. However, you may be wondering when you should give up on your pooch’s bed and invest in a new one. Situations where you should consider replacing your dog bed include when: It smells and repeated washing isn’t removing the nasty odour It’s infested with fleas and nothing is working to remove them The stuffing is falling out, the material is ripped and it’s totally beyond repair.   How Many Dog Beds Should A Dog Have? All dogs should have at least one bed, but if your dog spends time in different rooms, providing multiple beds can mean that they feel more comfortable in each room and are less inclined to jump on human furniture. If you have more than one dog, it would be advisable to provide a bed for each of them. However, if they tend to snuggle up together, it could make sense to choose a bed that’s big enough to support both of them.   What Dog Bed Should I Buy? So, when it comes to identifying the best dog bed for your furry friend, consider their wants and needs and match it with an option that ticks all the right boxes. If your dog is large, check that they’ll fit in the bed. If they’re prone to scratching and digging in their bed, make sure the material is strong enough to withstand this level of wear and tear. If they’re old, pick a bed that’s designed to support them effectively. If you’re still not sure what dog bed to choose, why not chat to one of our Customer Care team? They’re pet experts with years of knowledge, they can help to advise you on which dog  bed will suit your dog! Still not sure what bed to get your dog? Why not chat to one of our pet experts? They're bed experts and will be able to advise you which bed will be the best fit and shape for your dog, call us on +44 1790 720 900 or email us on sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk

By Megan Willis

Why Does My Dog Sleep Under My Bed? Unraveling the Mystery

As a loving pet owner, you might have wondered why your furry companion chooses to retreat under your bed for slumber instead of in their own cosy bed. While it may seem like a peculiar behaviour, rest assured, there are legitimate reasons behind this canine inclination. In this blog post, we will explore the various motives that drive dogs to sleep under beds and seek answers to some common questions, such as whether dogs like blankets, if it's safe to let them sleep under the bed, and why they prefer hiding under the covers or duvets. 5 Reasons Your Dog May Be Sleeping Under Your Bed 1. The Natural Instinct Of Shelter Dogs are descendants of wolves, and their instinct to seek shelter is deeply ingrained in their DNA. Just like wild canines seek out cosy dens to protect themselves from predators and harsh weather, your domesticated pooch instinctively looks for a safe, enclosed space to sleep under, providing them with a sense of security and protection. So your dog choosing to sleep under your bed is simply their natural instincts coming into play. 2. Temperature Regulation Another reason your dog might prefer sleeping under your bed is temperature regulation. Beds often have open spaces underneath, which provide cooler spots during hot weather. Conversely, during colder seasons, the space under the bed can be warmer, creating a snug spot for your dog to curl up and stay comfortable.   3. Safety and Privacy Dogs, much like humans, value their personal space. By retreating under your bed, they can enjoy some solitude and privacy, away from the hustle and bustle of the household. This becomes particularly apparent if your dog is feeling anxious or stressed. 4. The Appeal of Familiar Scents Dogs are incredibly social and affectionate animals, and their desire to be close to their human companions is undeniable. One of the reasons why dogs often choose to sleep under the bed is their instinctual need for closeness and connection with their owners. Your bed, a place where you spend a significant amount of time, is filled with your scent, which is like a comforting and familiar fragrance to your canine friend. By snuggling up under the bed, your dog can feel surrounded by your presence even while resting. This behaviour showcases their loyalty and attachment to you, as they seek solace in being near the person they love and trust the most. It's a heartwarming reminder of the special bond we share with our four-legged friends. 5. Dogs and Blankets: A Cosy Combination Some dogs love blankets or covers, while others may not be as fond of them. Just like humans, each dog has its own unique preferences. If your dog enjoys the security and warmth of being covered by a blanket, they may seek out the confined space under your bed as a prime napping location. If you want to treat your dog to a new blanket to get cosy with, why not explore our range of luxury blankets? They’re handmade here in our Lincolnshire workshop by our talented seamstresses, and are made using the finest materials so you know they’re best quality for your pup!   Should I Let My Dog Sleep Under the Bed? Allowing your dog to sleep under the bed is generally safe, as long as there are no hazards or potential dangers in the area. Ensure that the space under your bed is clean, free from sharp objects, and properly ventilated. Additionally, if your dog has any mobility or health issues, you might want to consider providing a more easily accessible sleeping spot.   Why Is My Dog Suddenly Sleeping Under The Bed? If your dog has suddenly started sleeping under the bed, there could be various reasons behind this behaviour change. It's essential to observe your pet closely and consider any recent changes in their environment or routine. Sudden hiding could indicate stress, fear, or discomfort. In such cases, it's best to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog behaviourist to identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate support.   How To Tell If My Dog Is Sleeping Or Hiding Under My Bed If you suspect that your furry friend might be seeking refuge under your bed, there are several telltale signs to look for to determine if they are sleeping or hiding. Body Language and Behaviour: If they are lying down comfortably with their eyes closed and seem at ease, chances are they are peacefully snoozing. You might even hear soft snoring or gentle breathing as they drift off to dreamland. On the other hand, if your dog appears tense, anxious, or exhibits fearful behaviour, they could be hiding under the bed as a response to stress or unease. Look for signs like tucked ears, a lowered tail, or avoiding eye contact. Consider the context of the situation: If there have been recent changes in the household or if your dog has encountered something frightening, they may choose to retreat under the bed as a coping mechanism. Appetite and sleep pattern changes: If your dog’s anxiety is leading to them hiding under the bed, you may notice some other changes to their routine. Their appetite or interest in their food may decrease and their sleep patterns may be disrupted. By paying attention to their body language and considering the circumstances, you can better understand whether your beloved companion is seeking comfort or seeking solace under the bed   How To Stop My Dog Sleeping Under My Bed While your dog seeking comfort under your bed is natural, there may be instances when you'd prefer them to sleep elsewhere for various reasons. Perhaps the accumulation of fur is becoming an issue, or you're concerned about potential hygiene concerns. Fortunately, with patience and positive reinforcement, you can gently encourage your furry companion to choose a different sleeping spot. Here are some effective strategies to help redirect your dog's sleeping habits: Introduce a Cosy Dog Bed: Invest in a comfortable and inviting dog bed placed in a quiet and accessible area of your bedroom or another preferred location. Make it attractive by adding their favourite toys or blanket to entice them to use it. We specialise in luxury cosy dog beds, why not browse our range and treat your dog to a new bed? Positive Reinforcement: Whenever you catch your dog resting in their new bed or any other location besides under your bed, praise them with enthusiasm and offer small treats as positive reinforcement. Dogs respond well to rewards and will associate the new spot with positive experiences. Block Access to Under the Bed: If possible, limit your dog's access to the space under your bed. Use baby gates or furniture to block the area off and make it less appealing as a hiding spot. Create a Safe Space: Dogs often seek shelter under the bed when they feel anxious or stressed. To prevent this, provide a designated "safe space" in your home, like a quiet corner or a crate with comfortable bedding. Encourage your dog to use this space by rewarding them whenever they go there voluntarily. You could look at crate training your dog, crates are designed to create that “safe space” for your dog, helping your dog to find that sense of security they are looking for. Our pet experts have written a guide on how to crate train your dog, with all their tips and tricks to help make the process as easy as possible. Consistency is Key: Be patient and consistent in redirecting your dog to their new sleeping area. It may take time for them to break the habit of hiding under the bed, but with persistence, they will learn to embrace their new sleeping spot. Seek Professional Advice: If your dog's behaviour persists despite your efforts, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or animal behaviourist. They can assess your dog's specific needs and tailor a training plan to help modify their sleeping habits. Conclusion Your dog's decision to sleep under your bed is a combination of natural instincts, seeking comfort, and a safe haven. Providing your pet with a secure and clean space is essential, as it allows them to indulge in their innate behaviours while ensuring their well-being and contentment. Remember that each dog is unique, so observe your furry companion's preferences and behaviours to better understand their needs. With love, patience, and a little understanding, you can create an environment where your dog feels happy, safe, and cherished, even if it's under your bed. If you have more questions or need further assistance regarding your dog's behaviour, consult with a professional veterinarian or animal behaviour specialist to ensure your pet's health and happiness. Happy pet parenting!

By Megan Willis